With a soon-to-be open full-service market, more outdoor eateries and renovated midrise loft apartments, the heart of the city is blossoming just in time for warmer weather.

The city’s first downtown grocery in decades, Witherbee’s Market & Deli, is set to open Thursday, with a grand opening to follow June 14. The grocery store sits in the city’s historic district at 601 King Ave.

Just a block away, the historic Durant Hotel already has leased more than a dozen of its 93 loft apartments. The Durant is still undergoing renovations, but is expected to be move-in ready by Aug. 20.

And downtown visitors and residents may take advantage of more outdoor cafe seating along Saginaw Street.

“It makes it more urban, more inviting and casual,” said Phil Shaltz, a managing partner in Uptown Developments.“People can hang out on a nice day, have a couple drinks and spend more time in a relaxed atmosphere.”

Witherbees co-owner David White said the market will fit in nicely with the new-atmosphere downtown and fill a void for residents who had to leave the area for a full-service grocery store.

“This has been a long time coming,” he said. “We’re definitely excited.”

The 10,000 square feet of sales floor will feature a full-service deli with hot food and made-to-order sandwiches, and diners can eat in an outdoor seating area in the warmer months.

The grocery store will have a small gift area, with plants and other items, as well as typical items found in any market. It also will sell food items from local farmers and other non-profits, he said.

A liquor license to sell beer and wine is pending, White said.

The historic building is owned and was renovated by Flint NIPP (Neighborhood Improvement and Preservation Project). White and co-owner Perry Compton are leasing the building.

“Right now we’re in stress mode because we’re settling the store,” he said.